Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

Transcription

1 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development United Nations University - Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT) Maastricht Graduate School of Governance (MGSoG)

2 Why study at Maastricht University? Established in 1976, Maastricht University (UM) is the most international university in the Netherlands. With about 16,000 students and 4,000 staff, UM is renowned for excellence and innovation in learning. High rankings in Dutch and international publications attest to our focus on quality. International orientation A bilingual (Dutch & English) university, UM offers Europe-focused and internationally-oriented bachelor s, master's and PhD programmes. About half of the students and one-third of the academic staff are non-dutch, representing over 100 nationalities. This cultural diversity greatly contributes to our international classroom. Small-scale teaching model Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a hallmark of UM s innovative character. This student-centred educational model is about analysing real-life problems and exchanging knowledge in a challenging and effective way. Interdisciplinary approach to education and research At UM education and research are integrated, and organised thematically: Learning and Innovation, Quality of Life, and Europe and a Globalising World. Researchers, teachers and students from all faculties come together to try and find solutions for socially relevant issues, such as healthy ageing, sustainability, the European integration process and the impact of technological development. UM alumni go places Reports of the Maastricht University Research Centre for Education (ROA) show that our alumni are doing well in their careers all over the world ( Kennis-As Limburg UM, MUMC+ and Zuyd University of Applied Sciences aim to play a leading role in the sustainable economic development of Limburg through the Kennis-As investment programme. Kennis-As connects the campuses in Maastricht, Geleen, Venlo and Parkstad. Within ten years, these campuses should be working together as one international knowledge centre with expertise on topics such as biomaterials and innovative healthcare. Kennis-As will result in new jobs, study programmes, international networks and easier access to academic knowledge for enterprises. The city of Maastricht Located in the centre of Europe and with a truly international feel, Maastricht is one of the oldest and most charming cities in the Netherlands. It can be reached through eight different airports and is well served by international trains.

3 Contents Maastricht University is a signatory of the "Code of conduct with respect to international students in Dutch higher education". More information about this code of conduct is available at United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars engaged in research, postgraduate training and the dissemination of knowledge aimed at resolving the pressing global problems of human survival, development and welfare, in line with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development programme is accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO). For more information on NVAO, please visit The Maastricht Graduate School of Governance is a member of APPAM, the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management, and NASPAA, Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. From the Dean's Office 4 Introduction: The Importance of Governance 5 Our students 6 What to expect? 6 Learning: A broad range of methods 6 Online learning facilities 6 Teaching staff 7 Guidance and support 7 MSc of Science in Public Policy and Human Development 8 Duration 9 Double degree 9 Programme objectives 9 Career prospects 9 Programme Description 11 Overview 14 Specialisations 15 Thesis 21 UM Honours programme - Premium 21 Career Opportunities 21 Practical Information 22 Application and admissions 22 Tuition fees 23 Scholarships 23 Application deadlines 23 Student organisations 24 Contact information 28 Open Days 28 Student for a Day 28 3

4 From the Dean s Office The Master of Science programme in Public Policy and Human Development (MPP) is a unique partnership between Maastricht University (UM) and the United Nations University (UNU). On the UM side, input to the programme is provided by the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance (MGSoG), which is the university's graduate school on public policy and governance. Over time, the School has been steadily growing in reputation with its rapidly expanding number of alumni involved in public governance across the globe and the rising number of students who apply for the Master of Science programme in Public Policy and Human Development. Established in 2005, the School is full of ambition and run by a highly motivated staff. In its first decade the School established itself as one of the few graduate schools in Europe in public policy providing highly ranked multidisciplinary training. To better reflect the inter-disciplinary nature of public policy, the School was built on academic resources at Maastricht University and contributions by numerous partners, including international organisations, NGOs, national and sub-national public actors and private businesses. On the UNU side, the Maastricht-based research institute UNU-MERIT already had a 20-year long research tradition when the School joined it in The integration of the School into UNU-MERIT was an opportunity to implement UNU's new plans for becoming active in graduate-level education. The School s integration was a major step in the expansion of the cooperation between UNU and UM, and it established the School as the United Nations' first graduate school in public policy. The mission of the Master of Science programme in Public Policy and Human Development is to train specialists combining a high level of academic scholarship with leadership, in order to strengthen governance capacity in domestic and international organisations. The programme offers specialisation tracks in cooperation with UNU, such as 'Risk & Vulnerability' taught by the UNU Environmental and Human Security institute in Bonn, 'Regional Integration & Multi-Level Governance' taught by the UNU Centre for Regional Integration Studies in Bruges, and 'Innovation, Institutions & Development' taught by UNU-MERIT. These UNU tracks augment specialisation tracks offered by Maastricht University in collaboration with other partners at the UN and elsewhere, such as 'Social Protection Policy, Migration Studies' and 'Foreign Policy & International Relations'. Through the cooperation with UNU, the master's programme has been transformed into a double-degree programme with a truly international character, preparing professionals for policy analysis, policy design, policy monitoring and policy evaluation across the globe. We look forward to a bright new era for the programme embedded and safeguarded within both Maastricht University and UNU-MERIT. Professor Dr. Bart Verspagen Dean of the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance Director of UNU-MERIT 4 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

5 Introduction: The Importance of Governance The actions of public authorities shape the lives of individuals across the globe. The impact of these actions often reaches much further than originally intended and sometimes far beyond the physical borders of nation states. Today we define 'governance' as a process involving many layers of public authorities ranging from international organisations to local administrations. Moreover, the process of governing is no longer the exclusive responsibility of politicians and civil servants. Semi-private, private and non-governmental parties are becoming increasingly important actors in all stages of complex policy processes, ranging from conceptualisation and design, to the implementation and evaluation of policy actions. UNU-MERIT and its School of Governance trains these professionals and researchers in policy analysis, risk assessment, policy design, policy monitoring, policy evaluation and methods and techniques of policy research. All academic activities of the institute share an analytical approach to policy problems and theoretical problems relevant to policy design and implementation. The specialisations offered in our master's programme focus on the most relevant topics of public policy: Social Protection Policy; Migration Studies; Risk and Vulnerability; Regional Integration and Multi-level Governance; Innovation, Institutions and Development; Foreign Policy and International Relations. The concept of 'good governance' refers to efficient and effective policies that reduce the risks for corruption and wastage. Experience shows that good governance is not something that can be implemented overnight. The development of a progressive, well-balanced policy requires independent professionals. 5

6 Our students We welcome highly motivated students from a variety of professional and academic backgrounds and aim to build a diverse and inter-disciplinary student body every year. Our students are defined by a solid academic record, a demonstrated commitment to public affairs at the national and international level, and an outstanding potential for career growth and leadership. In recent years, we have received over 500 applications from over 100 countries around the world annually, representing many different academic disciplines and regional cultures. Our students and researchers form a multicultural mix of dozens of countries around the world: France, Nigeria, Tanzania, Brazil, Vietnam, Mexico, Turkey, India, Ghana, Thailand, Peru, Australia, China, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, Jordan, Albania, Bhutan, UK, USA and many more. This diversity results in a stimulating blend of country-specific knowledge and individual experience where students not only learn from their teachers but also from each other. This contributes to a lively and open-minded environment in which students soon feel at home. Learning: A broad range of methods Maastricht University has long been known for its flexible and innovative use of teaching methods. It was one of the first universities worldwide to adopt the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system to prepare students for the realities of working life. PBL works by taking students through the discussion, analysis and solution of problems in seven steps. This allows students to play a more active role in their own education, by structuring the debate. The master s programme additionally benefits from contributions from many external experts and guest lecturers. The over 100 instructors and guest speakers in the programme apply a broad range of teaching methods: from PBL tutorials, simulation exercises, case studies and mock trials, to more traditional methods such as lectures and seminars. What to expect? An intensive, inspiring one-year programme The development of valuable skills and relevant knowledge Classes in small groups High-level guest lecturers Training courses, workshops, seminars, presentations and debates 6 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

7 I had the opportunity and good fortune to teach a one-week graduate level course on policy implementation. My teaching experience at the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance was very positive and I am impressed by the quality of students, the faculty and staff, the facilities, and the international goal-oriented mission of the programme. Prof. Dr. David Van Slyke Professor of Public Administration in the Department of Public Administration at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University, USA Teaching staff Guidance and support We aim to prepare MPP students for professional and academic careers and this goal is reflected in the selection of our teaching staff. Besides lecturers from Maastricht University and guest lecturers from Oxford, Syracuse, Liège and various United Nations University institutes, we invite experienced practitioners from policy organisations at the international, national and local level. In recent years, we have benefited from contributions by staff from the ILO, World Bank, EPRI South Africa and others, with over 100 instructors and guest speakers contributing in each academic year. With guest lecturers from international universities and organisations, the programme creates an interesting balance between the theoretical and practical approach and ensures that students receive exposure to relevant and current knowledge. Student guidance and support start with providing interested students from all over the world with up-to-date information on all aspects of studying at the School through our electronic learning environment Eleum, as well as a learning blog and a dedicated Facebook group for every academic year. Before and during their study, our students can count on support from the Board of Admissions, the Student Affairs Office and the Education Director, as well as numerous staff members, including specialisation and thesis coordinators, and from their personal thesis supervisor for help in matters of study choices, progress and planning. Maastricht University s central Student Services Centre provides many additional services, including student deans who can assist with financial and administrative questions, student psychologists who support fellow students in times of crisis, and a Career Services unit where students can receive guidance in applying for positions and securing jobs. 7

8 MSc in Public Policy and Human Development (MPP) Policy issues are growing more complex, and policy making has become a structured interaction between networked actors, with national governments and international organisations playing central roles. More than ever, there is a clear need for specialists in policy analysis who can work in international and multi-levels policy processes, taking on duties in the analysis of policy problems and the implementation and evaluation of solutions. To be well equipped in this domain, actors require a combination of theoretical background knowledge, technical skills and the opportunity to practise them, and an understanding of key policy fields. In the spring semester, students can choose one out of six areas of specialisation: Social Protection Policy (in cooperation with ILO) Migration Studies Innovation, Institutions & Development (in cooperation with UNU-MERIT) Regional Integration & Multi-Level Governance (in cooperation with UNU-CRIS) Risk & Vulnerability (in cooperation with UNU-EHS) Foreign Policy & International Relations Our one-year master's programme aims to provide such skills. The curriculum consists of two semesters of studies and a master s thesis. The academic programme during the fall semester is identical for all students and focuses on fundamental knowledge and skills needed by policy makers and analysts regardless of their subject area. 8 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

9 My career direction, as it is now, is exactly where I hoped it to be when I started with the master's programme. The School could not have prepared me any better! Ms Anne-Marie Tosserams, MPP Inaugural MPP cohort Project Manager, International Cooperation Agency of Netherlands Municipalities, The Hague, the Netherlands Duration Career prospects 1 September - 31 August (12-month full-time study) Double degree After successful completion of the programme, students obtain a double Master of Science (MSc) degree in Public Policy and Human Development. Graduates receive two diplomas, the first delivered by Maastricht University and accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO), and the second issued by United Nations University. Programme objectives The programme trains students to analyse, monitor and evaluate policies and to formulate recommendations for improving or replacing existing policies, or proposing new policies. Students are equipped with a variety of skills, tools and knowledge, that will help them to work resourcefully as policy designers and policy analysts in public and private institutions. Since its founding in 2005, almost 500 students have successfully graduated from the School. Many of them have gone on to work as public policy actors at local or international level. Our alumni are trained policy designers and analysts, working in the areas of public policy, consultancy, NGOs and academia. With the skills acquired in the programme, our alumni are able to identify and review the different options and implement the best policy. In their work, they are able to integrate legal, social, cultural, political and financial aspects, while ensuring the economic viability and sustainability of their policies. Policy monitoring, evaluation, innovative thinking, strong quantitative skills and critical analysis are logical elements in our alumni toolbox. Alumni are able to work throughout the world in public and private institutions of both developed and developing countries, including national, regional and local governments, ministries, pension funds, market authorities, NGOs, international organisations and consultancies. 9

10 Given the diverse set of actors working in the field of governance, it is not surprising that many of our alumni now work for private businesses particularly consultancies such as KPMG and PriceWaterhouseCoopers - and NGOs such as the Global Reporting Initiative, African Parliamentarians' Network Against Corruption or Civil Servants and Allied Workers Union of Zambia. F i g. 1 : Ar e asofe mpl oy me ntofoural umni ( i nt e r nal s ur v e y ) Finally, a substantial share of our alumni decided to continue doing academic research and joined universities such as the London School of Economics and Political Science, Sciences-Po in Paris or Erasmus University in Rotterdam, Maastricht University or UNU-MERIT. The map below shows the geographical distribution of our alumni around the world. 10 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

11 Fall Semester Introduction and overview The fall semester consists of seven courses and a study month. The objective for this semester is to cover general aspects of governance, drawing on several academic disciplines such as political science, sociology, public finance, micro economics, international relations, public management and public policy. This semester specifically aims to attain three goals: 1. to bring all students up to speed on the basics in public policy and public economics; 2. to equip all participants with competences in research design and methodology needed for academic work and professional careers; and 3. to practise the core skills of policy analysis. The fall semester prepares students for the detailed analysis of issues studied in the consecutive specialisation. Public Policy While experts may estimate the costs and benefits of policy options, the outcomes depend on final political decisions. Understanding these political factors is essential for effective policy making and a careful examination of the political implications of policy proposals is imperative for the success of policy actions. A skilled analyst is able to identify the key actors, their concerns and goals and the power they hold in their specific cultural background. The successful analyst is also aware of how institutional structures affect choices and outcomes. The course is primarily PBL-based, allowing students to play an active role throughout the four weeks while practising their analytical and team-working skills. Students will have the opportunity to investigate the relationships between different policy objectives, institutions and structures, and to critically review and translate their findings into well-defined proposals. Additionally the course focuses on how the traditional role of the state has changed as a result of new forms of 'governance', which has in turn led to the emergence of new actors and new forms of international cooperation, such as international regimes. Important concepts in the course are states and markets; bureaucracy and implementation; leadership and capacity; and electoral incentives. Public Economics Public economic theory is used to analyse the role of markets and market failures, externalities and corrective taxation, public goods and collective decisions, the pricing and regulation of natural monopolies, commodity and income taxation, capital and corporate taxes. This course is an introduction to theoretical foundations of efficiency and effectiveness criteria; net present value analysis and the mechanics and fundamentals of cost-benefit analysis and their common mistakes. The analysis of these topics and the underlying economic theory form the backbone of the course and the basis for the elaboration of further training in the following course of the semester. Empirical analysis is useful in determining the possible effect and size of the intervention, because when carried out incorrectly it can have a negative effect on the income level and, as such, cause social problems. Therefore appropriate design and relevant techniques for evaluating and assessing the effects of policy intervention are crucial. Public Policy Analysis The formulation and implementation of public policies are important responsibilities of modern government. The focus here is the interaction 11

12 between public authorities and stakeholders. To enhance this interaction, appropriate mechanisms of coordination and hierarchy in policy design and implementation are vital. This course is designed to help students develop the skills required to define and critically analyse policy issues, articulate relevant decision-making criteria for policy analysis, evaluate alternative solutions, and assess the means and costs of implementation. Students focus on actors, institutions and policy instruments to gain a systematic way of thinking about the development, design and assessment of public sector policies. During this course specific attention is also given to policy evaluation and policy simulation through real-life exercises. Statistics Levelling This course serves as an introduction to statistics, covering required concepts on mathematics as well as descriptive statistics. To assist students seeking to bolster their quantitative skills ahead of the programme, we make this course available online during the summer months. Research Design Given the variety of disciplines and academic cultures represented in the MPP, this course seeks to provide all participants with a shared, standard repository of key academic skills. These range from critical evaluation of fields of literature to choosing a guiding question for research project and appropriate selection of cases and methods data collection and analysis. key concepts in data management, descriptive and inferential statistics by way of a step-wise analysis of a personal, real-life dataset collected in a UN member state. Along the way, we also provide basic skills in dealing with professional statistics software. Econometrics The challenge of econometrics is to find out what everyday reality, properly recorded and interpreted, can tell us about the relevance of economic and social theories. Governance theories concern, more often than not, the effects of economic and social policies. It is the purpose of econometric methods to measure the impact and assess the effectiveness of policy interventions. The problem with econometric methods is that they depend on statistical induction. Apart from being fraught with technicalities, statistical induction is unavoidably subject to statistical error. Whereas a mathematical conclusion is arguably 'exact', a statistical conclusion is not - even though deep mathematical arguments may have been invoked in the process. Thus every decent statistical estimate comes with a 'standard error' attached to it, revealing the scale of the sampling error it contains. Furthermore, ordinary sampling error is a trifle as compared to some other kinds of statistical errors, called (imaginatively) non-sampling errors. These are much harder to control and require more subtle methods of statistical analysis. Unfortunately, non-sampling errors are conspicuously present in economic and social policy research. Intro to Data Science Given the importance appropriate handling and analysis of data plays in the world of policy design and evaluation, this course introduces students to 12 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

13 Study month: January After the intensive first four months of the programme, January allows our students to focus on their own goals and digest what they have learned in the first courses. They then have the opportunity to draft their thesis proposal. The study month gives them the time needed to choose a topic of interest - often in relation to the upcoming specialisation - and to do literature research. Guest lectures by experienced researchers will provide an overview of a variety of qualitative research methods relevant to students of the social sciences. The study month concludes with rounds of public presentations of thesis proposals to collect feedback and advice from fellow students and faculty members. Spring semester: Specialisations During the fall semester, students choose an area of specialisation from the six tracks offered in the programme. Each track offers four courses covering one particular theme of public policy. The education director and instructors of the specialisations are available to assist students with the selection of their specialisation. The specialisations are: Social Protection Policy (in cooperation with ILO) Migration Studies Innovation, Institutions & Development (in cooperation with UNU-MERIT) Regional Integration & Multi-Level Governance (in cooperation with UNU-CRIS) Risk & Vulnerability (in cooperation with UNU-EHS) Foreign Policy & International Relations 13

14 MSc Public Policy & Human Development Overview 2015/2016 Optional Summer Courses Jul-Aug Political Science Economics Sept Public Policy Levelling Courses Research Design Opening Statistics Oct Public Economics Data Science Core Courses Nov Dec Public Policy Analysis Econometrics Specialisation Choice Thesis Kick-off Winter Break Dec-Jan Study Month Jan Winter Levelling Courses Thesis Proposal Proposal Presentation Feb Mar Apr May Social Protection Policy (SPP) Migration Studies (MS) Foreign Policy & International Relations (FPIR) Risk & Vulnerability (R&V) Innovation, Institutions & Development (IDD) Regional Integration & Multilevel Governance (RIMLG) Master Thesis Closing Jun Resits Core/Specialisation Jul-Aug Thesis Submission Thesis Defence 14 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

15 Specialisations Social Protection Policy A sound social protection policy is designed to reduce the incidence and severity of poverty and vulnerability. This can be done by promoting efficient and equitable labour markets, decreasing people's exposure to risks, and developing their capacity to manage economic and social risks, such as exclusion, unemployment, illness, disability and old age. This is done alongside efficient design and management within (and coordination between) social protection institutions, so as to insure an optimal and sustainable allocation of public resources. Topics covered during the specialisation include: poverty and inequality theories and measurement, risks and vulnerability, the political, economic and social forces that influence and shape how different countries respond to challenges of poverty and inequality, social protection policy instruments, human development issues (including the human rights based approach to development), the nature and economics of the various welfare state models, quantitative techniques in social policy design. Social budgeting and actuarial analysis, and the design and identification of social protection programmes. The Social Protection Policy Design and Financing specialisation is a compilation of applied courses aimed at giving future policy analysts and practitioners a comprehensive view of social protection policy. Backed by traditional and state-of-the-art theories, the specialisation incorporates social situations in local, regional and international contexts and introduces a range of possible policy interventions and techniques of rational decision-making in public policy. Through the interlinked and interdisciplinary specialisation modules the students will be exposed to a spectrum of theory and real-life case studies, from micro and macro perspectives. They will learn how to define the problems which face social protection analysts and practitioners; and how to be able to diagnostically identify the range of policy options available to address social challenges. February March April May The Global Challenge: Beyond Poverty and Inequality Understanding Social Protection: From Justification to Intervention Quantitative Techniques for Social Protection Policy Design Financing Social Protection 15

16 Migration Studies Migration is a growing phenomenon that has gained importance in the public debate on development, welfare and immigration policy. According to the International Organization for Migration, it is estimated that there are 191 million international migrants worldwide, constituting 3 percent of the world population (2005). Remittance transfers (the money that migrants send back to their home countries) currently amount to more than US$300 billion, surpassing foreign direct investment and official development aid in many countries around the world. Migration is a controversial topic in the international and national policy arena and the effects of migration on migrants, their families and communities in the host and origin countries need to be studied carefully. While mass media often focus on a few spectacularly problematic integration cases, the courses in this specialisation study the key issues in-depth and with scientific rigour. This specialisation comprises four courses that introduce students to the essential components of migration studies including trends, theories, causes and effects, and migration policy. Students will have the opportunity to explore the area of migration studies by taking courses with a broad perspective on the prevailing theory and practice. Particular emphasis is put on practical fieldwork. The Migration Studies specialisation trains students for the international labour market as policy advisors, practitioners, researchers, etc., working for governments, international organisations or academic institutions. February March April May Introduction to Migration Studies Migration and Remittance Effects Data Collection and Analysis for Migration Studies Comparative Migration Studies 16 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

17 Innovation, Institutions and Development This specialisation addresses how institutions can be designed to stimulate innovation and ultimately development. In doing so, the specialisation undertakes three steps. First, a historical perspective that shows the growth of countries. Using macroeconomic theory, a number of simple questions are answered: how have average living standards between countries diverged or converged? What influence did the global economic environment play? How is the production and use of technological knowledge distributed in the world? And how does this relate to the global income distribution between countries? The answer to these questions leads us to a basic theory of economic growth. In the second step, we use a comparative approach to describe and analyse the relative growth performance of countries in four world regions: Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the developed world (Europe, North America, Australia). During this step, we focus on the way in which public actors contribute to development, especially in terms of policies that facilitate technology transfer. This includes national governments, but also international institutions (e.g., WTO, World Bank), and other factors, such as multinational corporations or intellectual property rights. Finally, we focus on the role of innovation as a key engine of growth. The development and use of knowledge remains very much concentrated in specific regions and sectors despite the fact that long-distance travel has become very easy. 'Innovation systems', such as Silicon Valley, bring a variety of actors together in a relatively small space, creating useful dynamics of knowledge creation and diffusion. Upon completing this specialisation, students will have a deeper understanding of the role of public policy and (semi-) public organisations in fostering innovation in these systems, thereby contributing to growth and development. February March April May Innovation and the Global Income Distribution Innovation and Development Patterns Aroud the Globe Innovation Systems in the Global Economy Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 17

18 Regional Integration and Multi-Level Governance In today's world, public policy making is no longer a prerogative of the state. Competences to introduce, reform and implement public policies become increasingly shared, rather than divided, between various governmental and non-governmental actors across the subnational, national, transnational, international and supranational levels. Countries increasingly look for joint solutions to common policy challenges: regional cooperation is on the rise worldwide. Complex systems of multi-level governance, in which actors at different levels of authority collaborate and compete for control over public policy making, have developed across the globe. This specialisation explores how regionalism and multi-level governance transform the ways in which public policy is designed and executed in different world regions: Europe, Asia, Africa, South and North America. The four courses of the specialisation will investigate challenges to governance in complex environments and analytical approaches used to address them. Students will learn how and why micro- and macro-regions emerge and proliferate and which kinds of regionalism exist in different parts of the world. They will systematically study key theories explaining regionalism and multi-level governance and methodology for analysing cross-regional policies and regional institutions. Governance in multi-level settings will be analysed as regards effectiveness and efficiency of policy coordination as well as its democratic quality. Current practices of regional governance will be investigated both from an academic perspective and first-hand policy-makers' experience. The specialisation is offered in collaboration with the United Nations University Institute on Comparative Regional Integration (UNU-CRIS) based in Bruges, Belgium. February March April May Introduction to Regions Comparative Regionalism Regionalism and Multi-Level Governance Research Seminar: Topical Issues in Comparative Regionalism 18 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

19 Risk and Vulnerability Societies worldwide are unceasingly susceptible to known, emerging and unknown risks and disasters. These can either be natural (geophysical, hydrological, climatological, etc.), man-made (cyber/ict attack, terrorism, biomedical, technological, etc.) or a mix of both (nuclear/energy disaster triggered by an earthquake). They can be voluntary or involuntary as well as extreme or diffuse. In response to the increasing disaster frequencies and magnitudes, and to minimise ensuing losses (human, economic, ecological, etc.), disaster-risk stakeholders worldwide are keen on finding optimal innovative instruments that can aid vulnerability assessment (and scenario modeling) in efforts to institute effective early warning systems, build resilience and promote adaptive governance temporally and spatially. This specialisation deals with the key geospatial, technological and governance aspects in disaster risk assessment, resilience building, crisis management and effective risk communication. Students will be exposed to diverse vulnerability and resilience dimensions, components, databases, assessment frameworks and analytical techniques. Students will learn how to independently select relevant indicators and construct composite indices. At the end of the specialisation, students will moreover, discover how to cost-efficiently and effectively deal with, communicate and manage crises situations (e.g. through risk financing). Diverse quantitative and qualitative techniques and instruments will be employed throughout the specialisation including several geo-information platforms for visualising, analysing and interpreting spatial data (ArcGIS, ArcView, ArcCatalog, ArcMap, etc). The specialisation is taught in collaboration with the institute of Environment and Human Security of the United Nations University (UNU-EHS) in Bonn, Germany. In addition, students will benefit from first-hand practical sessions with visiting disaster-risk experts and practitioners working for governments, financial institutions, private companies, civil society and research institutes nationally and internationally. February March April May Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Building Resilience and Adaptive Governance Risk Management in Crisis Situations Risk Communication: The Last Frontier? 19

20 Foreign Policy & International Relations An essential part of policy is influenced by or made at the international stage, between states as sovereign actors. This specialisation focuses on the key policy areas negotiated in the international arena, from the flows of trades in good and services, and intellectual property rights to development cooperation and the promotion and protection of human rights. We assess the goals of economic development, the influence of international mediation and negotiation, and the role of legal rules in facilitating or hindering that process. We examine the current international legal development regime; study the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to failure of efforts at legal reform; analyse the reform strategies of selected development agencies; and explore alternative modes of analysis that may lead to more effective strategies than many legal assistance programmes have enjoyed to date. In doing so, we also aim to provide students with key tools to participate in such processes at the international level. This specialisation features dedicated training sessions in negotiation skills and the gathering of (open source) intelligence, and opens ways to practising these skills in simulated negotations and a mock trial. The specialisation is also scheduled around extra-curricular activities that allow students to practise these skills outside of the classroom, for example by participating in EuroMUN, a large Model United Nations conference held in Maastricht every year. February March April May Making Policy on the International Stage The Law and Policy of the World Trade Organization International Intellectual Property Law and Policy Human Rights & Development 20 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

21 Thesis One of the requirements for completing the programme is to write a thesis during the spring semester and summer break. Students have to work on a specific problem, conduct their own analysis and write a thesis reflecting their knowledge and understanding using generally accepted methods of analysis and research. The thesis can be in the form of a survey analysis, empirical investigation, literature review, case study or theoretical investigation. The thesis gives students the chance to formulate an approach and solve a problem independently, whilst demonstrating the skills they acquired during the programme. The thesis track is designed to guide students into their own research in five steps: 1. The introductory four-week research design course in September. 2. A kick-off event in early December. 3. Tutorials and workshops as students write their first thesis proposal during the study month. 4. Feedback by faculty and fellow students during a public defense of the proposal. 5. Personal guidance by a thesis supervisor from UNU, UM or an external organisation. UM Honours Programme Premium Premium is Maastricht University's honours programme for outstanding master's students. This programme offers participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience by working on a real-world project for a client for approximately three months. Each project involves a small team of about five students, assisted by a content mentor and competence coach. The Premium honours programme is meant as an additional preparation for your career. So far more than a dozen MPP students have completed the programme successfully. Career Opportunities Both the School and Maastricht University provide support for MPP students applying for positions. Every year in early Spring, we host a day-long event in which an experienced career coach provides advice to students seeking to work for international organizations and the public sector. We co-sponsor the annual Carreers Beyond Borders week hosted by the United Nations Student Association and provide free access to all MPP students. Maastricht University s Career Services office provides personal training and workshops to MPP students free of charge or for a low fee. The School also communicates any internship opportunities at both UNU and UM that are open to MPP students, as well as calls for application received by our partners. MPP students are generally well-received by internship providers, whether these are policy actors or universities, and several of our partners have internship opportunitites reserved solely for MPP students. Finally, if you are already working for an organisation in the public sector, participating in the master's programme may be supported by your employer through a sabbatical or financial support. We are happy to assist such arrangements and to ensure that you meet the requirements of your employer. Please contact us to discuss any requirements or arrangements needed. 21

22 Practical Information Application and admissions Each application is reviewed by the Board of Admission. Admission requirements are the same for all specialisations of the programme. Admission requirements A bachelor's or master's degree from a relevant academic field such as economics, international relations, political science, law, social sciences, business administration, health sciences or public health Adequate knowledge of pre-calculus mathematics and ideally descriptive statistics Basic knowledge of economics, social sciences, political science and/or law Proficiency in English: for a TOEFL test, we require a minimum score of 600 (PBT) or 100 (IBT) and 240 (CBT). For an IELTS test, we require a minimum score of 7.0. Results of tests taken more than three years before the date of your application will not be considered. For a Cambridge English: Advanced certificate, we require Grade A. For a Cambridge English: Proficiency certificate, we require Grade A, B or C. How to apply? If you meet the admission requirements, please complete a registration request for the programme via You will receive confirmation of your request and login details for > My UM. Please complete the application and upload all documents relating to the programme in the My UM portal. If we need further information to assess or complete your application, additional documents may be requested. Only complete files will be evaluated and considered for admission. A file is considered complete when the following documents are included: A letter of motivation ( words) explaining why you have chosen the programme, your plans for the future, and in which you convince the Board of Admission that you possess the intellectual capacities and personal skills to successfully complete the programme An essay of 400 words, related to one of the specialisation topics, that displays a basic knowledge of the subject matter, a sufficient level of English and an appropriate academic writing style. Please use references. Submit the essay in MS Word or searchable PDF A certified copy of your bachelor's and/or master's degree A certified list of grades from your bachelor's and/or master's degree Two letters of recommendation by current or former professors or employers (original hard copies should be sent directly to the Student Affairs Office) Proof of proficiency in English. Native speakers and students who have received their bachelor's or master's education in English are exempted Curriculum vitae Copy of valid passport Passport size picture Upon receipt of your application request, your application will be reviewed. Within four to six weeks you will hear whether you are admissible to the programme. 22 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

23 Tuition fees Maastricht University has a lower and a higher tuition fee. The tuition rate depends on several factors, such as nationality, residence and whether this is your first or second study programme. For the most up-to-date information and to find out which rate applies to you, please use our online tuition fees guide: The tuition rates for the academic year 2016/17 are*: Lower tuition fee Full-time bachelor's and master's students: 1,984 Higher tuition fee Full-time master's students: 13,000 * No rights may be derived from the fees published in this brochure. Scholarships There are various scholarship opportunities for the master's programmes, e.g. Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship Programme, Nuffic, World Bank, etc. For more specific information on the application process and eligibility criteria, please visit the scholarship section on our website. Application deadlines The following deadlines apply: students who need a visa: 15 June students who do not need a visa: 15 July Please visit our website: for the most up-to-date information. Questions about the application process? If you have any questions about the application process, please us at: info-governance@maastrichtuniversity.nl Programme details and tuition fees may change. Please check our website for the latest information. 23

24 Graduates of the MGSoG have learned to analyse complex governance problems, rationalise difficult policy choices and put a budgetary figure on policy decisions. One could say that their two prime qualities are intellectual rigour and compassion, people with soft hearts and hard heads. Coming to Maastricht to teach each year is like returning to school and coming home. The fact that many of our master s students return for PhD programmes tells us that they feel the same way. Prof. Dr. Michael Cichon President of the International Council on Social Welfare and former Director of the Social Security Department of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Student organisations There are several students clubs in Maastricht, and many are internationally oriented with a view to helping Dutch and foreign students to mingle. Our own student organisation, DEMOS, was set up by a group of enthusiastic students with the aim of organising social and academic activities for students and researchers at the School. For more information about DEMOS, please visit: The United Nations Student Association (UNSA) is a student organisation run by students from various faculties. For more information about UNSA, please visit: 24 Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development

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26 Master s programmes overview 2016/17 Arts, Culture & Society Arts and Heritage: Policy, Management and Education (Arts & Culture) (MA) 3 Art, Literature and Society (Arts & Culture) (MA) 3 Cultures of Arts, Science and Technology (Arts & Culture, research master) (MSc) 1 European Studies on Society, Science and Technology (European Studies) (MA) 1 Media Culture (Media Studies), 2 specialisations (MA) 1 Politics and Society (Arts & Culture) (MA) 3 Behavioural & Political Sciences European Public Affairs (MA) 1 European Studies, 3 specialisations (MA) 1 European Studies (research) (MSc) 1 Forensic Psychology (MSc) 1 Globalisation and Development Studies (MA) 1 Human Decision Science (MSc) 1 Psychology, 6 specialisations (MSc) 1 Public Policy and Human Development*, 4 specialisations (MSc) 1 Sustainability Science and Policy (MSc) 1 Business & Economics (The School of Business & Economics is Triple Crown accredited: AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA) Business Research, 2 specialisations (MSc) 1 Econometrics and Operations Research, 4 specialisations (MSc) 1 Economic and Financial Research, 2 specialisations (MSc) 1 Economics, 6 specialisations (MSc) 1 Financial Economics, 3 specialisations (MSc) 1 Fiscal Economics (MSc) 2 Global Supply Chain Management and Change (MSc) 1 Human Decision Science (MSc) 1 Information and Network Economics (MSc) 1 International Business, 11 specialisations (MSc) 1 Management of Learning (MSc) 1 Public Policy and Human Development, 3 specialisations (MSc) 1* Graduate programmes for professionals Business Administration (MBA) 1 Executive Master of Finance and Control (MSc) 1 Executive Master of IT Governance & Assurance (MSc) 1 International Executive Master of Auditing 1 International Executive Master of Finance and Control (MSc) 1 Maastricht University Opleiding tot Register Accountant (MURA) 4 Education Management of Learning (MSc) 1*** Graduate programmes for professionals Evidence Based Innovation in Teaching (MSc) 4 Health Professions Education (MSc) 1 Health & Life Sciences Biomedical Sciences (tul at UM and UHasselt), 5 specialisations (MSc) 1 Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience (research), 6 specialisations (MSc) 1 Epidemiology (MSc) 1 European Public Health (MSc) 1 Global Health (MSc) 1 Health Education and Promotion (MSc) 1 Health Food Innovation Management (MSc) 1 Health Sciences (research), 4 specialisations (MSc) 1 Healthcare Policy, Innovation and Management (MSc) 1 Human Movement Sciences (MSc) 1 Medicine (MD) 4 Mental Health (MSc) 4 Physician-Clinical Investigator (MSc/MD) 4 Work, Health and Career (MSc) 1 Graduate programmes for professionals Affective Neuroscience (MSc) 1 Health Professions Education (MSc) 1 Law Dutch Law, 5 specialisations (LLM) 4 European Law School, 3 specialisations (LLM) 1 Forensics, Criminology and Law (LLM) 3 Globalisation and Law, 4 specialisations (LLM) 1

27 International and European Tax Law (LLM) 1 International Laws (LLM) 1 Law and Labour, 2 specialisations (LLM) 4 Public Policy and Human Development, 1 specialisation (MSc) 1* Tax Law, 2 specialisations (LLM) 4 Graduate programmes for professionals Advanced Master in Intellectual Property Law and Knowledge Management (MSc/LLM) 1 European Master in Human Rights and Democratisation 1 Sciences Applied Statistics (tul at UHasselt) (MSc) 1 Artificial Intelligence (tul at UM) (MSc) 1 Biobased Materials (MSc) 1** Biomedical Sciences (tul at UM and UHasselt), 5 specialisations (MSc) 1**** Informatics (tul at UHasselt) (MSc) 2 Operations Research (tul at UM) (MSc) 1 Systems Biology (MSc) 1** New initiatives at UM * This programme is offered as a double degree in collaboration with United Nations University. ** The master programmes Biobased Materials and Systems Biology are new degree programmes at UM, which are intended to begin on 1 September At time of publication, these programmes are in the last phase of the process of accreditation. *** Please note that this programme is officially registered as a programme in the Economics domain. This may have consequences for your tuition fee rate. Please visit tuitionfeesguide for more information. **** Please note that this programme is officially registered as a programme in the Health domain. This may have consequences for your tuition fee rate. Please visit tuitionfeesguide for more information. Language of instruction: 1 Only in English 2 Part Dutch, part English 3 Available in both English and Dutch 4 Only in Dutch International Joint Research Master Work & Organizational Psychology (expected start date: 1 September 2016) European Master in Translational Neuroscience (expected start date: 1 September 2016) The programmes under New initiatives at UM are currently in the process of accreditation. For more information about these programmes and their expected starting dates, please consult

28 Contact information UNU-MERIT / Maastricht Graduate School of Governance Maastricht University P.O. Box MD MAASTRICHT The Netherlands Phone: info-governance@maastrichtuniversity.nl Open Days Every year around February/March and in October Student for a day Get a a taste of our master s programme first-hand by spending a day at our School, attending a lecture or a tutorial, or simply meeting current students or the course coordinator? Check our website for more information Maastricht Graduate School of Governance, Maastricht University. P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, the Netherlands Text: UNU-MERIT Photography: Herman Pijpers, Sueli Brodin, UN Photo Concept and design template: Vormgeversassociatie BV, Hoog-Keppel Lay-out and production: Marketing & Communications, Maastricht University. Although this brochure was made with the utmost care, no rights can be attained from it. BE Based in Europe, focused on the world. Maastricht University is a stimulating environment. Where research and teaching are complementary. Where innovation is our focus. Where talent can flourish. A truly student oriented research university. UM en-GB